Kandy

The last royal capital of the Sinhalese kings, set around a lake and home to the Temple of the Tooth.

Where we stay: Amaya Hills, Chaya Citadel, Cinnamon Citadel, Earl's Regency Hotel, Queens Hotel

Heritage & History

Embekka Devalaya

1 hour

A temple known for some of the finest wood carvings in Sri Lanka.

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Kandy National Museum

1 hour

A museum in the royal complex that tells the story of the Kandyan kingdom.

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Temples & Sacred Sites

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

1.5 hours

The golden-roofed temple holding a relic of the Buddha's tooth. Visit at puja time to see devotees' offerings, and explore the smaller shrines and museums in the complex.

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Nature & Gardens

Kandy Lake

1 hour

A lake in the heart of Kandy, with a pleasant walking path beside the royal complex.

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Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

2 hours

Sri Lanka's largest botanic garden, once reserved for Kandyan royalty. Highlights include orchids, an avenue of royal palms and a giant Javan fig tree.

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Udawattakele Forest Reserve

1-2 hours

A forest reserve on a hill above Kandy, good for a short walk and bird watching.

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Hiking & Adventure

Hanthana Mountain Hike

Half day

A hike in the Hanthana range, an ecologically protected area with seven peaks. The highest, Uura Kanda, is the favourite for trekkers.

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Local Experiences

Kandy Cultural Dance Show

1 hour

An evening show of traditional Sri Lankan dance and music, bringing together the island's different dance styles.

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Kandy Esala Perahera

Evening (seasonal)

A grand procession in July and August that honours the sacred tooth relic, with decorated elephants, fire performers, dancers and acrobats.

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Tea Factory Visit

1 hour

A visit to a working tea factory to see how tea is made, with a cup of fresh Ceylon tea to finish.

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Tours that include Kandy

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